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Spring Racing Carnival off the beaten track…

It seems Spring racing fever has once again escaped the traditional confines of Flemington, Caulfield and Moonee Valley racecourses to grip our fair city in mass celebration. Satellite carnival events are happening in unlikely places including the Langham Hotel as I discovered upon wandering into their lobby recently.

Milliner Richard Nylon has set up a selection of his hat, headwear and fascinator designs inspired by love letters, romance and floral themes. The small yet spectacular collection will be on display until November 7th. Don’t even attempt to sneakily take one home – I hear a lady tried that last year only to return the piece upon finding it delivered nothing but bad luck at the track. Be warned.

Nylon will also be offering up his considerable skills with a Spring millinery workshop this Friday 7th October from 12.30pm to 3pm. All materials will be provided for guests to create their own bloom that can been worn in your hair, on a hat or as a brooch throughout the carnival on whenever it takes your fancy. A take home pack with on-trend fabrics and trim as selected by Nylon will be a gift so you can assemble another at home. After the session will be afternoon tea, where Langham’s executive chef will provide tips on how to pack the ultimate picnic hamper for the races. How perfectly civilised does that all sound? Bookings are essential; call 1800 641 107 or email to reserve your place at $195 per person.

Finally, if you feel like a spot of high tea (I have an almost pathological love for dainty sandwiches) wear your finest hat to Aria Bar and you will receive a complimentary glass of Domaine Chandon sparkling as you savour traditional tea-time delights. This offer is available each weekday from October 11th to November 5th. For more details or to book click here.

2 Thoughts on “Spring Racing Carnival off the beaten track…”

Some of the best hatrs I have seen are in the pop up shop of Julie anne Lucas Millinery in Georges on Collins ( little Collins street end). All one off individual creations. completely different than the normal run of the millinery!!! You must have a look.

I have actually seen Julie’s work (she lived in Dubai for a few years I see, and I notice you also do a lot of work in the Middle East did you happen to come cross her then?) – gorgeous.

I only talk about Melbourne labels and designers so since she’s from Perth I can’t include her work in the “guide to the best hats” piece I’m working on at the moment. Though if I do wander into the pop up shop soon and end up falling in love with a hat you might see JAL popping up in my outfit post/dresscode section 🙂